How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Craving a restaurant-quality meal at home? How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan brings the flavors of a gourmet dish right to your kitchen. This recipe offers a delightful combination of perfectly seared steak bites and creamy Parmesan pasta, making it suitable for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its rich flavors and simple preparation, this dish is certain to impress family and friends alike.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes, ideal for busy weeknights.
• Rich Flavor Profile: The garlic butter sauce enhances the steak bites, while creamy Parmesan pasta adds indulgence.
• Versatile Dish: Perfect as a main course or paired with a salad for a complete meal.
• Easy Cleanup: Most of the cooking is done in one skillet, minimizing cleanup time.
• Impressive Presentation: Serve this dish for guests and watch them rave about your culinary skills.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into this delicious recipe, gather your tools to make the cooking process smoother.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Pot for boiling pasta
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large Skillet: Provides enough space for searing the steak bites evenly.
• Pot for Boiling Pasta: Ensures that you cook the pasta properly without crowding it.

Ingredients

For the Steak Bites

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)

For the Creamy Parmesan Pasta

• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)

How to Make How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Step 1: Cook the Pasta

Bring a pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta shells according to package instructions until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.

Step 2: Prepare the Steak Bites

Pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels. Season with salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.

Step 3: Sear the Steak

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the steak bites in a single layer and sear for about 2 minutes per side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness. Remove from the skillet and set aside.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Butter

Reduce heat to medium, add butter and minced garlic to the skillet. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Return the steak bites to the pan and toss to coat in the garlic butter. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

Step 5: Make the Creamy Parmesan Sauce

In a separate pan, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds. Pour in the heavy cream and bring to a gentle simmer. Stir in Parmesan cheese, salt, black pepper, and nutmeg. Cook until the sauce thickens, about 2-3 minutes. If needed, add a bit of reserved pasta water to adjust consistency.

Step 6: Combine the Pasta and Sauce

Add the drained pasta to the sauce and toss to coat evenly.

Step 7: Serve

Plate the creamy Parmesan shells with the garlic butter steak bites on the side or mixed together. Garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Enjoy your delicious meal!

How to Serve How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Serving garlic butter steak bites with creamy Parmesan pasta is an art that enhances the dining experience. With the right presentation and pairing, you can elevate this dish to a restaurant-quality meal at home.

Plating Suggestions

• Artful Arrangement: Place pasta shells in a shallow bowl, then top with steak bites for a visually appealing layer.
• Garnish Elegantly: Sprinkle fresh parsley and extra Parmesan cheese on top for color and flavor.
• Side by Side: Serve steak bites on one side of the plate and pasta on the other for a rustic look.

Accompaniments

• Crusty Bread: A slice of warm crusty bread is perfect for soaking up any leftover garlic butter sauce.
• Fresh Salad: A simple mixed greens salad with a light vinaigrette complements the richness of the dish.
• Vegetable Medley: Steamed or roasted vegetables add color and nutrition, balancing the meal.

How to Perfect How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Achieving juicy steak bites requires attention to detail. Here are some essential tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Bold Seasoning: Season your steak well before cooking. This enhances flavor and ensures each bite is delicious.
• Avoid Overcrowding the Pan: Cook steak in batches if necessary. Overcrowding leads to steaming instead of searing, which affects texture.
• Rest After Cooking: Let the steak rest for a few minutes after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute for maximum tenderness.
• Adjust Sauce Consistency: If your sauce is too thick, add reserved pasta water gradually until you reach the desired creaminess.
• Fresh Ingredients Matter: Use freshly grated Parmesan cheese for better melting qualities and flavor compared to pre-grated options.

Best Side Dishes for How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

Pairing sides with garlic butter steak bites creates a well-rounded meal. Here are some fantastic side dishes that complement this recipe beautifully.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make a comforting addition.
2. Roasted Asparagus: Lightly seasoned asparagus roasted until tender adds freshness and crunch.
3. Cauliflower Rice: A low-carb option that soaks up sauce while offering a light contrast to the hearty pasta.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables grilled until charred enhance the dish’s flavors with smokiness.
5. Herb Quinoa Salad: A fluffy quinoa salad mixed with herbs adds protein and texture to your meal.
6. Crispy Brussels Sprouts: Roasted Brussels sprouts drizzled with balsamic glaze offer a savory-sweet balance.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking steak bites can be simple, but certain missteps can ruin your dish. Here are common mistakes to avoid:

• Not Patting the Steak Dry: Moisture on the surface of the steak can prevent a proper sear. Always pat the steak pieces dry with paper towels before seasoning.

• Overcrowding the Skillet: Placing too many steak bites in the skillet at once can cause steaming instead of searing. Cook in batches if necessary to ensure even browning.

• Ignoring Resting Time: Cutting into the steak immediately after cooking can lead to loss of juices. Allow the steak bites to rest for a few minutes after cooking for optimal flavor.

• Using Low-Quality Ingredients: The flavor and texture of your dish depend on the quality of ingredients. Choose fresh garlic, good quality butter, and freshly grated Parmesan for best results.

• Skipping Pasta Water: Not reserving pasta water can result in a thick sauce that doesn’t coat the pasta well. Always save some pasta water to adjust sauce consistency as needed.

• Rushing the Cooking Process: Cooking too quickly can lead to uneven doneness. Take your time to achieve the perfect sear and creamy sauce.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container.
• They will remain fresh for up to 3 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

• Wrap tightly in plastic wrap or place in freezer-safe bags.
• These leftovers can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat in short intervals until hot, stirring occasionally.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or reserved pasta water if needed, until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan work with other meats?

Absolutely! You can swap out beef for lamb or turkey based on your preference while following the same cooking method.

Can I use different types of cheese?

Yes! While Parmesan is recommended for its creaminess, you could experiment with cheeses like Pecorino Romano or Asiago for a different flavor profile.

What can I serve with these steak bites?

These juicy steak bites pair wonderfully with a side salad, roasted vegetables, or even crusty bread. Feel free to get creative!

How long does it take to make this recipe?

This recipe takes under 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights or last-minute dinner parties.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Certainly! Consider adding sautéed bell peppers or mushrooms along with your steak bites for added flavor and nutrition.

Final Thoughts

These juicy steak bites with garlic butter and Parmesan are not only quick and easy but also incredibly satisfying. The dish is versatile enough that you can customize it by adding different proteins or sides based on what you have on hand. Don’t hesitate—give this recipe a try and impress your family and friends!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

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How to Make Juicy Steak Bites with Garlic Butter & Parmesan

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• Author: Dian
• Total Time: 30 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

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Description

Indulge in a restaurant-quality meal at home with our juicy steak bites coated in rich garlic butter and served alongside creamy Parmesan pasta. This delightful recipe combines perfectly seared beef chunks with a velvety sauce, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or special occasions. With its quick preparation time of under 30 minutes, you can impress your family and friends without spending hours in the kitchen. The savory garlic butter enhances the flavors of the steak, while the creamy pasta adds indulgence to each bite.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 ½ lbs steak (sirloin, ribeye, or New York strip), cut into bite-sized pieces
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
• 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley (for garnish)
• 8 oz small pasta shells
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 ½ cups heavy cream
• 1 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg (optional)
• ½ cup reserved pasta water (if needed to thin the sauce)

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Instructions

1. 1. Cook the pasta shells in a pot of salted boiling water until al dente. Reserve ½ cup of pasta water, then drain and set aside.
2. 2. Season steak pieces with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes. Pat dry with paper towels.
3. 3. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the steak bites for about 2 minutes on each side until browned; remove from the skillet.
4. 4. In the same skillet, melt butter and sauté minced garlic until fragrant. Return steak to coat in garlic butter.
5. 5. In another pan, melt butter and sauté garlic before adding heavy cream and simmering gently. Stir in Parmesan cheese until thickened.
6. 6. Add drained pasta to the sauce and mix well.
7. 7. Serve the creamy pasta topped with garlic butter steak bites; garnish with parsley if desired.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 20 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Searing and Saucing
• Cuisine: American

Nutrition

• Serving Size: Approximately 1 cup (250g)
• Calories: 620
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 650mg
• Fat: 38g
• Saturated Fat: 18g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 48g
• Fiber: 2g
• Protein: 28g
• Cholesterol: 120mg